Cornucopia/Nature’s Bin Celebrates 35th Anniversary
Cornucopia Inc./Nature’s Bin celebrated its 35th Anniversary this year on June 16th, and the organization will be recognizing this milestone throughout the year. While some people may know about all the organic and healthy food at Nature’s Bin, they may not be aware that it is owned and operated by Cornucopia, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to help people with disabilities develop their skills, confidence and workplace potential.
This beloved local, non-profit business began in 1975 with the idea that people with disabilities could learn real work skills in a real work setting to prepare for employment at a competitive level. “That idea may sound commonplace today,” commented Executive Director, Scott Duennes, “but in 1975 it was radical thinking.” Originally located in the Birdtown neighborhood of Lakewood, The Bin, as it was known then, provided training and employment for about 12 people with developmental disabilities each year. “Nature’s Bin on Sloane Avenue was developed in 1991 to expand on this successful model and to create a more flexible and responsive vocational training program,” Duennes explained. Since 2005, with the expansion of the store, this social enterprise has experienced record breaking sales year after year.
Over the years, Cornucopia has broadened its scope both in terms of whom the organization serves and the programs it provides. Cornucopia now serves people with a wide range of severe disabilities, including developmental disabilities, mental illness, autism, visual, speech and hearing impairments, and injuries resulting from accidents or illnesses. In addition to the vocational training program at Nature’s Bin in Lakewood, Cornucopia offers vocational training programs within the Eliza Jennings Senior Care Network in Cleveland and at Jennings Center for Older Adults in Garfield Heights.
What distinguishes Cornucopia’s programs from other training programs is the real-work learning environment. Trainees work side-by-side with staff members in most aspects of department operations, facing the challenges and rewards of competitive employment in a caring, supportive atmosphere. Cornucopia also provides job placement services for people with disabilities. In 2009, Cornucopia provided over 260 services to 180 people with disabilities.
“Our success at Nature’s Bin and in all of our vocational training programs over the past 35 years is made possible by the generous support of individuals, businesses, community foundations, referral sources, collaborating partners and each and every customer who spends their shopping dollar at Nature’s Bin,” Duennes said. “We thank everyone for their faith and sustaining support of our mission.” For more information about Cornucopia/Nature’s Bin, visit www.naturesbin.com.